The relationship between the Middle East and the West is an enormously complex one with a vast range of parties, each with their own interests and agendas that often conflict as well as a detailed and sometimes violent history, the impacts of which are still frequently felt even today.
The complexities and challenges from this relationship have of course significant humanitarian impacts, as well as a potentially harmful effect on trade and economic interests.
It is easy for people living in the UK, who perhaps do not have any direct connection with the Middle East, to not give the region much thought beyond their own very general and high-level perception, and such perceptions are very often inaccurate. That said, many people will have noticed through media reporting in the past year or so that relationships do appear to be improving, and as a result, they will have had their perceptions challenged.
The easing of tensions
The Iranian Nuclear deal is just one example of how tensions are easing and relationships improving. Many expert commentators are writing that the gates are opening up between the Middle East and the West and that this will lead to increased trade and a greater level of economic cooperation.
This will be a welcome economic boost for all involved. Iran and other nations in the Middle East will be in an improved position to continue the growth of their economies, while the big players in Europe and the US will find themselves with access to a whole new marketplace – a marketplace that is growing and offering new and exciting opportunities for trade and investment.
This is equally true for the UK, as individuals and businesses based here will inevitably start to view the Middle East as a more attractive source of options for trade relations and even holidays.
Success stories
Fahad Al Rajaan is a Middle Eastern businessman with an international presence. He was educated at American University in Washington, DC and lead Ahli United Bank’s international operations in Egypt, Iraq, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and the UK. Despite the economic troubles experienced across the world in 2009, the bank reported a net profit of $143.5 million in the first half of the year, and that figure rose to $482.5 million in 2014.
Fahad Al Rajaan’s story is a perfect example of how an increasing number of individuals are breaking out from the Middle East and enjoying success in other countries. The improving relations between the Middle East and the West have been instrumental in this development, and Fahad Alrajaan’s page is the best place to start to find out more about this particular success story.
Future opportunities
Very few people would argue that improved international relations are a bad thing, and this is especially true with regard to areas that have suffered particularly difficult or traumatic histories. It is important for individuals, and not just politicians and business people, to look for opportunities within such improved relations, because the more success that can be attributed to such increased cooperation, the greater the chances for a continued improvement.